'No bed, no fan..not even a mattress to sleep': Ex-Indian Army captures soldiers' heroic rescue efforts amid Wayanad landslide
The catastrophic landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, have prompted urgent rescue efforts. Amid the crisis, a poignant LinkedIn post reveals the tough conditions faced by soldiers on the ground.
Over 300 lives have been lost in the massive landslides that ravaged Wayanad, Kerala, on Tuesday following relentless torrential rains.
As the region grapples with this unprecedented tragedy, rescue teams are urgently combing through the wreckage, racing against time in their desperate search for survivors.
In the midst of the devastation, a powerful display of human resilience emerges through the ongoing rescue efforts.
A LinkedIn post by ex-Indian Army Captain Shashank Shandilya reveals the harsh reality faced by soldiers on the ground in Wayanad, Kerala. The image he shared shows exhausted army personnel sleeping on concrete, without even basic comforts like beds or mattresses.
Shandilya's message reads, "No bed, no fan, no AC...not even a mattress to sleep. No excuses, No complaints. Tired soldiers involved in the rescue operation at the landslide disaster at Wayanad, Kerala. Salute to our brave hearts...Jai Hind!"
Yet, the image and the post have sparked a wave of differing opinions.
Some commenters highlighted the stark contrast in living conditions between ranks, noting that while high-ranking officers enjoy special perks, lower ranks often endure difficult conditions. They argue that beyond just expressions of gratitude, there is a pressing need for better facilities and support for these soldiers.
One commenter criticised the lack of basic amenities provided to the troops, questioning why the government hasn¡¯t ensured decent accommodations.
Another emphasised that it¡¯s not enough to merely thank these brave individuals; they deserve proper resources and support to match their sacrifices.
Recently, the Indian Army had responded to a touching letter from a Class 3 student in Kerala.
Ryan had penned a heartfelt note in Malayalam: "Dear Indian Army, my beloved Wayanad was devastated by a massive landslide. Seeing you rescue people and even have biscuits while building a bridge moved me deeply. I aspire to join the Indian Army one day and protect my nation."
#WayanadLandslide
¡ª Southern Command INDIAN ARMY (@IaSouthern) August 3, 2024
Dear Master Rayan,
Your heartfelt words have deeply touched us. In times of adversity, we aim to be a beacon of hope, and your letter reaffirms this mission. Heroes like you inspire us to give our utmost. We eagerly await the day you don the uniform and stand¡ pic.twitter.com/zvBkCz14ai
In reply, the Indian Army wrote: "Dear Master Ryan, your words have profoundly touched us. In challenging times, we strive to be a beacon of hope, and your letter reinforces our mission. Heroes like you inspire us to give our all. We look forward to the day you wear our uniform and stand with us. Together, we will make our nation proud."
The landslides in Wayanad, famous for its beautiful tea estates, green forests, rolling hills, and waterfalls, were the worst since the devastating floods in 2018 that claimed about 400 lives.
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